West Ham United youngsters are grabbing their opportunities with both hands as James Tomkins has now spoken of his dream debut last weekend at Everton, following Freddie Sears’ fine start to the Hammers first-team career as he scored the winner against Blackburn coming off the bench the previous weekend.

Tomkins, the 18-year-old defender, also made an important contribution in the England under-19s 3-1 win against Russia on Tuesday scoring a brace.

He told BBC London 94.9: "It's hard to put this week into words. I still can't believe it now, I'm still buzzing.

"To score two goals as well, it's been a very good week for me."

On Sears, Tomkins added: "Freddie made his debut a week before me and he could have won the game against Everton as he popped up and hit the post.

"He's been banging them in for the youth team and the reserves, and he's deserved his chance. Now I've got my chance I just want to show everyone what I can do."